The Closest Airports to St. Augustine: Where to Fly Into

Planning a trip to this historic city? Maybe you're staying in one of our luxury vacation home rentals near St. Augustine?

One of the first things we need to figure out is the best airport to fly into. St. Augustine, known for its rich history and stunning architecture, isn't directly serviced by a major airport, but there are several convenient options nearby.

We'll explore the closest airports that make accessing this charming city a breeze. Whether you're looking for the quickest route or the most budget-friendly option, knowing which airports are nearby can save us time and hassle.

Let's dive into the best choices for flying in.

Major Airports Near St. Augustine

Travelers frequently rely on several major airports near St. Augustine when planning visits. Each airport offers unique advantages in terms of location, amenities, and accessibility.

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) sits about 53 miles from St. Augustine. With over 6 million passengers annually, JAX ranks as the closest major airport.

Airlines such as Delta, American, and Southwest operate from JAX. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, various dining options, and multiple car rental agencies.

Ground transportation options, including shuttles and ride-sharing services, facilitate easy access to St. Augustine.

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Orlando International Airport (MCO) stands about 104 miles from St. Augustine. MCO serves more than 50 million passengers yearly, making it one of the busiest airports in Florida.

Major airlines like United, JetBlue, and Spirit offer numerous domestic and international flights. The airport features extensive dining and shopping options, free Wi-Fi, and several lounges.

Multiple transport choices, such as rental cars and shuttle services, provide convenient routes to St. Augustine.

Tampa International Airport (TPA)

Tampa International Airport (TPA), approximately 172 miles from St. Augustine, serves around 22 million passengers each year. TPA hosts airlines including Frontier, Southwest, and British Airways.

Amenities encompass a wide array of dining and retail options, free Wi-Fi, and multiple lounges.

Accessible transportation options like car rentals and shuttle services assist travelers in reaching St. Augustine.

Regional and Local Airports

Exploring regional and local airports is crucial for travelers who prefer shorter travel times and convenience.

Let's dive into two key options near St. Augustine.

Northeast Florida Regional Airport (UST)

Northeast Florida Regional Airport, located just 4 miles north of St. Augustine, offers a proximal landing spot.

This airport, with its focus on general aviation, caters to private and charter flights.

Although smaller, it provides amenities like car rental services and aircraft maintenance. Its close vicinity makes it a top choice for quick access to the heart of the city.

Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB)

Daytona Beach International Airport, situated about 54 miles south of St. Augustine, serves as another viable option.

Handling approximately 700,000 passengers annually, it supports several regional airlines, offering routes to major hubs like Atlanta and Charlotte. With amenities including dining options and rental car services, DAB ensures a comfortable transit experience.

Comparing Airport Distances

Several airports are within a reasonable distance to St. Augustine, making it easy to choose the best option based on travel plans.

First, Northeast Florida Regional Airport (UST) is just 4 miles from St. Augustine, the closest in both proximity and travel time. Its primary use is for private and chartered flights.

Next, Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), located 53 miles from St. Augustine, is a major hub, serving over 6 million passengers annually. It offers numerous amenities, making it a comfortable choice for travelers.

Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) is another practical option at 54 miles away. It supports around 700,000 passengers each year and connects to major hubs, offering ease and efficiency.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) lies 104 miles from St. Augustine and serves more than 50 million passengers annually, with extensive shopping and dining options to enhance the travel experience.

Lastly, Tampa International Airport (TPA), although 172 miles away, serves 22 million passengers each year and offers various transportation options and amenities. It can be suitable for those considering a broader range of flight options.

Transportation Options from Airports to St. Augustine

Direct transportation options from nearby airports to St. Augustine ensure a seamless transition for travelers eager to reach their destination.

Car Rentals

Car rental services are widely available at all major airports near St. Augustine. Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) offers several car rental agencies, including Hertz and Enterprise.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) hosts companies like Avis and National, while Tampa International Airport (TPA) features options like Budget and Alamo. For those flying into the Northeast Florida Regional Airport (UST), local agencies provide car rental services on-site, ensuring convenience for private and chartered flight travelers.

Shuttle Services

Shuttle services offer another convenient transportation option. Several shuttle companies operate between Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and St. Augustine, such as GO Airport Shuttle and Express Shuttle.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) offers services like SuperShuttle and Mears Transportation, providing direct routes to St. Augustine. Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) also has shuttle services like Daytona Orlando Transit, ensuring connectivity to St. Augustine.

Public Transportation

Public transportation options are available for budget-conscious travelers. From Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) offers bus routes connecting to downtown Jacksonville, where transfers to Greyhound buses heading to St. Augustine are available.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) features Lynx buses connecting to downtown Orlando, with Greyhound and Megabus services to St. Augustine. Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) provides Votran buses to Daytona Beach’s bus terminal, where Greyhound routes lead to St. Augustine.

Tips for Travelers

For those planning a trip to St. Augustine, timing and preparation are crucial for a smooth journey.

The Best Times to Fly

Choosing the right time to fly can significantly affect your travel experience. We recommend booking flights during off-peak hours, typically between late morning and early afternoon.

Early weekdays, specifically Tuesday and Wednesday, often have lower fares compared to weekends. Consider planning your trip during St. Augustine's shoulder seasons, from March to May and September to November, to avoid peak holiday crowds.

This timing generally provides better flight availability and reduced ticket prices. For the best rates, book your flights 6-8 weeks in advance, using fare comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner.

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Choosing the right airport can significantly impact your trip to St. Augustine. With several options ranging from major hubs like Jacksonville International and Orlando International to smaller, more convenient airports like Northeast Florida Regional, there's something for every traveler. Each airport offers unique amenities and transportation options to ensure a smooth journey.

By considering factors like distance, budget, and convenience, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your travel needs. Whether you're seeking quick access or a more budget-friendly route, the closest airports to St. Augustine provide a variety of choices to enhance your travel experience.